Pregnancy - 8 Weeks

Baby

As your pregnancy approaches the end of the second month, your baby’s cartilage and bones are beginning to form. She is now 5/8 of an inch long, about the size of a lima bean. She’s doubled in size in the past two weeks, as her body parts that have formed are growing more developed. Her eye structure is developing well, and her tongue is just beginning to take shape. Although still webbed, her fingers and toes are growing in length, and her eyelids are beginning to form. Once fully formed, her eyelids will be fused shut for the next few months. Baby’s embryonic tail will soon disappear, as she becomes more human-like every day.

As for her internal organs, breathing tubes are beginning to extend from the throat to the branches of her early lungs. The nerve cells in her brains are making new connections, forming early neural pathways. This causes her to jerk about like a jumping bean, as she begins her early reflexive movements. Boy or girl? We can’t tell yet, as the genitals have not developed enough for the outside observer to see.

And, if you want to know what baby is up to every day, check out the ExpectantSee Screensaver.

Mom

Are you feeling like you’ve already gained weight? You can chalk that up to excess gas and bloating, since your baby and uterus are not yet big enough to make up a significant amount of weight gain. The hormones coursing through your system are slowing your digestive system, so that bloating and constipation are becoming regular occurrences. To ease constipation, it is important that you get enough fiber into your diet right now. Whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are key; however, don’t skimp on the dairy and meat. Your baby needs calcium for bone development and iron for a healthy blood supply. Folic acid should be ample in your prenatal vitamins.

Feeling sluggish these days? Those hormones are also responsible for making you sleepy. Some moms feel like they need a nap 3 hours after waking up. Grab some zzz’s when you can. If you can’t nap at work, try going to bed an hour or two earlier for a while. Your body is working overtime on preparing your body and providing for your little one. Get some sleep for now; you’ll get your energy back in a few more weeks.

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PLEASE NOTE

This should be used as a general guideline and is for general information and educational purposes only. Please remember that all pregnancies develop at different rates. If you have questions about your baby's development, please contact your doctor or midwife.